About us

The Friends of Galileo is a friendly, family-oriented club of astronomy enthusiasts in Longview, WA. We are dedicated to advancing the understanding & enjoyment of astronomy through educational programs, practical experiences and social events.

You don't need your own telescope to join!

We have star parties, sidewalk astronomy and guest speakers (local and internationally-known experts). Members share responsibility for operating the club, participate in social events, and can even borrow various club telescopes. Membership dues (payable in early May) are modest and cover your immediate family.

We love to share our wonder and knowledge of the sky!

Members include all ages, from beginners to experienced viewers. Some are telescope makers and astrophotographers. We have teachers, millworkers, homemakers, doctors, students and retirees. You'll fit right in!

Oh, and check our Galileo page for a short bio of the first astronomer to use a telescope.

We've met monthly since 1995. Join us!

Visitors are always welcome to take part! Check our Calendar page for dates and times. Contact us for your first visit, in case of last minute changes.

Our meetings generally include sky reports (what we can see this month), club business, guest speakers, and light refreshments. It's a great way to meet fellow sky enthusiasts.

Just getting started in astronomy? You'll find friendly club members to provide tips and advice.

We meet at Mark Morris High School, either in the Large Group Instruction Center or in the physics classroom, Room D8 (see map detail, upper right).

September through May: meetings start at 7:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month.

November: meeting date may change due to Thanksgiving

December: we hold our meeting / Christmas party at another location (to be announced)

June through August meetings: schedule and location to be announced

Sidewalk astronomy

From time to time, members will bring their telescopes to the sidewalk outside Starbucks on Ocean Beach (just west of Harbor Freight).